Former Team India all-rounder Irfan Pathan backed Mohammed Siraj for the third match of the ongoing 5-ODI series against New Zealand. With two wins in the first two matches and one washed-out third ODI, India can't lose the series. In a worst-case scenario for the visitors, they could end the contest with a 2-2 scoreline if the home side wins the remaining two matches.

As there are no chances of losing the series, Irfan Pathan suggested that the Indian cricket team play the experienced fast bowler Mohammed Siraj in the fourth match in Mount Maunganui on Friday, November 13.

Irfan Pathan backs Mohammed Siraj ahead of the India vs New Zealand 4th ODI

Mohammed Siraj recently featured in a multi-day match for the India A cricket team against New Zealand A in Christchurch earlier this month, where he picked up four wickets. But the right-arm pacer's previous ODI match was for India against the West Indies in New Chandigarh on October 3. In that match, Siraj got only one wicket for 52 runs in his 8-over spell. Since then, the Indian team management has not utilised him for any 50-over game.

Ahead of the fourth ODI, the team management has released Anshul Kamboj, one of their pacers who played in the first couple of matches, to start preparations for the Tests in New Zealand, which will be after the conclusion of the ODI series. In the absence of Kamboj, the team will have to name someone as his replacement.

Irfan Pathan explains why Mohammed Siraj should play India vs New Zealand 4th ODI

Speaking on Cricinfo, Irfan Pathan asked the Indian team management to include Mohammed Siraj as the replacement for Anshul Kamboj. As the 2-Test series against New Zealand is approaching soon, game time in ODIs could become a perfect stage for the pacer's preparations.

"This is the perfect time to play him as well. Right now, India can't lose a series. So, India is in a very strong position. Siraj should get a game also because he hasn't played cricket for some time now. The Test matches are coming up. If he gets those 10 overs going for himself, it will be good for his Test match preparation. The selectors and the management will get an idea where Siraj is with his white-ball cricket," Pathan opined.

Irfan Pathan wants to see Mohammed Siraj in a competitive match

Noting Siraj appeared in a match for India A, Irfan Pathan stated that playing in a practice match and in an international match are different things. By delivering ten overs in an ODI match, the management and the bowler, both parties, will have an idea about their preparations ahead of the Tests.

"A practice game is different. International cricket is different. I want to see my premier fast bowler be ready for Test cricket when the time comes. Also, by playing one-day cricket and bowling 10 overs, he can tell the selectors, ' Okay, I'm here, and I can bowl really well in one-day cricket. Don't forget me. I would like to see him getting an opportunity," Pathan added.